Pakages with active agents

ABSTRACT

Packages with active agents are described. Generally, each disclosed package has a pair of opposing body panels joined together along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides, a reclosable fastener extending along a mouth formed opposite the bottom, and at least one active agent. The at least one active agent is associated with at least one of the body panels and includes a freshness-extension agent to inhibit spoilage of perishable product disposed in the package, an odor management agent to reduce, mask, or neutralize odors from garbage or waste disposed in the package, or another type of agent.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/375,188 filed on Feb. 26, 2003 and now pending, which application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/359,874 filed on Feb. 27, 2002.

The present application also claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Patent Application Nos. 60/543,344 and 60/543,345, each filed on Feb. 10, 2004 and now pending.

Each of the foregoing applications is expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to packages and structures and methods for releasing active agents in such packages. More specifically, the present invention relates to active agents, such as freshness-extension agents, odor management agents, and other functional agents, and structures and methods for releasing such active agents to extend the freshness of perishable products and manage or control the odor related to such products disposed within such packages.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The use of packages for a number of household and industrial purposes has gained wide acceptance. For example, bags and containers are commonly used by commercial entities and consumers to store perishable products and items. Also for example, bags or liners are commonly used in industrial settings and households to collect garbage or waste.

Reclosable packages, such as food containers with fitted or hinged lids, and bags with push to close or slider fasteners, are a great convenience to suppliers and consumers of pre-packaged perishables, especially for products such as luncheon meats and cheeses where, typically, only a portion of the product is used at any given time. Reclosable packages are also especially convenient for in-home use to store leftover perishable products. A problem with these reclosable packages, however, is that they do not contain any feature that serves to extend the time period that the perishable can be stored in the package and remain fresh. Thus, the contents of the package may spoil sooner and, if so, the contents will be no longer suitable for human consumption. The cost of perishable spoilage is a significant problem for both consumers and commercial users of reclosable packages.

One attempt to address the problem of perishable spoilage has involved using layered tamper resistant seals that are substantially impermeable to oxygen. In this type of system, as soon as the packaging is first opened, the seal is broken and does not further inhibit spoilage of the perishable. This type of system thus addresses only the issue of perishable spoilage before the package is initially opened, and does not serve the in-home user who is placing leftover perishable products into the storage bags. A need therefore exists for a package with a feature that inhibits perishable spoilage.

Packages such as thermoplastic bags or liners are also commonly used as waste or garbage bags. Generally, such bags are constructed from a structure having two layers of thermoplastic film joined along three sides and having a mouth formed along the fourth side. This basic structure has been adapted to a range of sizes and configurations that vary with the intended use of the bag.

A garbage bag or liner is often used to collect waste that can and often does produce unpleasant odors. To address this problem, manufacturers have combined a scented resin with one or more polymeric resins during formation of such bags. The scented resin is therefore distributed uniformly throughout the bag. Such a waste bag assists in masking, neutralizing, and/or reducing at least some of the odors.

However, such waste bags can present a number of disadvantages. For instance, because the scented resin is distributed throughout the bag, the scent is not concentrated where a user is likely to encounter the unpleasant odors (e.g., the mouth of the bag). Further, manufacturing difficulties can arise from such bags. For example, to obtain a desired amount of scent proximate the mouth of the bag, an excess of scent material may need to be distributed throughout the remainder of the bag, which can result in an overpowering scent. Of course, if an insufficient amount of scent material is used, the scent provided may not be suitable to mask, neutralize, or reduce the unpleasant odors. Additionally, because the scented resin used in such garbage bags is likely to be more expensive than other polymeric resins used in forming the garbage bags, it can be economically undesirable to distribute relatively equal amounts of scented resin throughout the bag. A need therefore exists for a package with a feature that manages odor without such disadvantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Packages with active agents are disclosed herein.

Generally, each of the disclosed packages of the present invention has a pair of opposing body panels joined together along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides, a reclosable fastener extending along a mouth formed opposite the bottom, and at least one active agent.

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a reclosable package is provided with a freshness-extension agent that is associated with at least one of the body panels of the package for communication with an interior of the package and to inhibit spoilage of perishable product disposed therein. The freshness-extension agent is included in at least one of a coating, a patch, a pouch, and a tape applied to the at least one of the body panels. Alternatively, the freshness-extension agent is distributed in the at least one of the body panels. For example, the freshness-extension agent can be distributed in the form of microcapsules in the at least one of the body panels. An isothiocyanate compound, such as allyl isothiocyanate, can be included as the freshness-extension agent. The freshness-extension agent can further include an acid and/or a fragrant.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a structure to selectively initiate release of the freshness-extension agent is provided. Alternatively, the freshness-extension agent is released by humidity.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a permeable freshness-extension layer includes the freshness-extension agent. The permeable freshness-extension layer includes a release agent. In some embodiments, a removeable cover that is removably attached to at least a portion of the freshness-extension layer is provided, in which the freshness-extension layer is secured to one of the body panels of a reclosable package and the removeable cover is secured to the other of the body panels of the reclosable package.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a barrier layer associated with at least one of the body panels of a reclosable package is provided The barrier layer is attached to the at least one of the body panels via at least one of an adhesive, a co-extrusion, a heat seal, and a weld.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a diffusion layer is provided and disposed adjacent to a freshness-extension layer that includes the freshness-extension agent. The diffusion layer is located closer to an interior of a reclosable package than the freshness-extension layer.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, at least one of the body panels of a reclosable package defines a perforation extending therethrough, and a freshness-extension layer including the freshness-extension agent is disposed on the exterior of the at least one of the body panels adjacent the perforation.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a freshness-extension layer including the freshness-extension agent is attached to one of the body panels of a reclosable package. The freshness-extension layer includes a one-time breakable element that extends between and that is secured to the opposing body panels of the reclosable package.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a reclosable package is provided with a first opposing body panel having an inner surface and an outer surface, a second opposing body panel having an inner surface and an outer surface, a reclosable polymeric seal, and a polymeric freshness-extension structure. The opposing body panels are joined along a pair of sides and a bottom bridging the sides so as to form an open mouth at one end and an interior space. The reclosable polymeric seal extends along the one end of the inner surface of the first and second opposing body panels. The polymeric freshness-extension structure includes a first polymeric layer being a barrier layer and a second polymeric layer being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent. The second polymeric layer is adjacent to the first polymeric layer. The first polymeric layer is attached to the package such that the freshness-extension agent of the second layer is in communication with the interior space.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a freshness-extension structure is provided with a first polymeric layer being a barrier layer, a second polymeric layer being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent, and a removable cover removably attached to at least a portion of the second polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer is adjacent to the first polymeric layer.

These and other features of the disclosed packages of the present invention can be more fully understood by referring to the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. The drawings are not drawn to scale, but show only relative dimensions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a sectional view of a mouth portion of a reclosable package or bag with the opposing body panels attached to respective fin portions according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the reclosable package incorporating the mouth portion depicted in FIG. 1 in which the reclosable fastener or zipper has a slider mechanism being opened and the one-time breakable element being partially opened according to another embodiment;

FIG. 3 a is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag comprising a polymeric structure with one layer according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 b is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag comprising a polymeric structure with two layers according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 c is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag comprising a polymeric structure with three layers according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 d is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag comprising a polymeric structure with two layers according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag according to yet a further embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 a is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag that includes a polymeric structure with four layers according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 b is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag that includes a polymeric structure with six layers according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 a is a partial cross-section view of two sides of a reclosable package or bag that includes two polymeric structures that each comprise two layers according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 b is a partial cross-section view of two sides of a reclosable package or bag that includes two polymeric structures that each comprise two layers according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 c is a partial cross-section view of two sides of a reclosable package or bag that includes two polymeric structures that each comprise three layers according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 a is a partial cross-section view of two sides of a reclosable package or bag with a polymeric structure disposed therebetween, in which the polymeric structure includes a one-time breakable element.

FIG. 11 b is a partial cross-section view showing the reclosable package or bag of FIG. 11 a after breakage of the one-time breakable element;

FIG. 12 a is a partial cross-section view of two sides of a reclosable package or bag, in which one side includes a polymeric structure that comprises two layers, and in which the polymeric structure is connected to the other side by a removable element; and

FIG. 12 b is a partial cross-section view showing the reclosable package or bag of FIG. 12 a after removal of the removable element.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates to packages, packaging materials, and other related structures with an active agent incorporated therein. As such, the invention has applications for various flexible and rigid containers and packages, such as reclosable plastic bags, waste bags and liners, rigid trash containers, air-tight containers, lunch boxes, and packaging wraps and foils commonly used for perishable packaging or perishable covering.

As used herein, the term “package” can be understood to include any kind of package or container, such as flexible plastic bags and rigid containers, as well as foils or wraps commonly used to package or store perishable items.

As used herein, the term “active agent” can be understood to include any agent, ingredient, or composition that provides an enhancing or beneficial effect within a package or container. An active agent can include a “freshness-extension” agent for extending the freshness or shelf life of food products or other perishables stored in a package, an “odor management” agent for masking, neutralizing and/or reducing odors from the package, or another functional agent.

Each of the active agents of the present invention can be used in combination with a package. More specifically, each freshness-extension agent of the present invention can be used to inhibit spoilage of food products or other perishables in the package, and each odor management agent of the present invention can be used to reduce, neutralize, and/or mask odors from the package. Each of the active agents of the present invention can be disposed in the environment of the package, e.g., disposed in the form of a coating, patch, pouch, or tape that is attached to a component of the package; extruded with a component of the package; sprayed, brushed, coated, laminated, or stamped onto a component of the package; impregnated into a component of the package; and/or distributed in the material of a component of the package, such as in the form of microcapsules.

For purposes of illustration and not limitation, the freshness-extension agents of the present invention can be disposed in the environment of a polymeric bag for storing perishable items. The polymeric bag can be intended for consumer storage of food products (e.g., leftover food products) or applications, such as “form, fill, and seal” food packaging operations. The polymeric bags can include non-reclosable and reclosable polymeric bags. Reclosable polymeric bags are typically made to be reclosable via reclosable elements or fasteners, such as resealable adhesive or cohesive seals, mated tracks, and mated dimples. The mated tracks can be opened and closed by applying finger pressure or by using an auxiliary device, such as a slider. Some examples of reclosable polymeric bags include the bags disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,067,208 and 6,147,588 and U.S. patent application Publication No. 2004/0066985, the contents of which documents are expressly incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

Further for purposes of illustration and not limitation, the freshness-extension agents of the present invention can also be disposed in the environment of a rigid package for storing perishables, such as bakery containers, deli containers, fruit containers, lunch boxes, and roaster containers. Some examples of containers include containers disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,042,586, 6,257,401, 6,349,857, 6,644,494, 6,845,878 and U.S. patent pplication Publication Nos. 2004/0074902 and 2005/0000966, the contents of which documents are expressly incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

Additionally for purposes of illustration and not limitation, the odor management agents of the present invention can be used in the environment of bags, liners and rigid trash containers for collecting garbage or waste and other containers for collecting items with undesirable odors, such as laundry and diapers. Such waste bags can include a tie feature that assists in closing the bag or liner securely, forming a handle for carrying the bag or liner to be disposed, and/or facilitating the opening of the bag or the liner. Some examples of waste bags include the bags disclosed in U.S. patent application Publication No. 2003/0223657, the contents of which document are expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

Illustrative embodiments will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the disclosed packages and related structures and active agents. For purposes of illustration and not limitation, the packages of the present invention are described in the context of reclosable polymeric bags. One or more examples of the illustrative embodiments are shown in the drawings. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that each disclosed bag having an active agent can be adapted and modified to provide alternative embodiments of bags, containers, and other packages with active agents for other applications, and that other additions and modifications can be made to the disclosed packages and active agents without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, features of the illustrative embodiments can be combined, separated, interchanged, and/or rearranged to generate other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Turning now to the drawings, FIG. 1 depicts a mouth portion of a reclosable package 10 with an agent structure 50 containing an active agent. The agent structure 50 is located below a reclosable closure arrangement such as a fastener or zipper 14. FIG. 2 shows the reclosable package 10 with the mouth portion depicted in FIG. 1 in a partial open position.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the mouth portion of the reclosable package 10 includes a pair of first and second opposing body or wall panels 16, 18 that make up a package body 20 and define an interior space 22. Connected to the first body panel 16 is a first track 24 having a first profile 26 and a first fin portion 28 extending generally downward from the first profile 26. The first body panel 16 has an outer surface 16 a and an inner surface 16 b. Connected to the second body panel 18 is a second track 30 having a second profile 32 and a second fin portion 34 extending generally downward from the second profile 32. The second body panel 18 has an outer surface 18 a and an inner surface 18 b. The inner surface 16 b is attached to the first fin portion 28. The inner surface 18 b is attached to the second fin portion 34. It is contemplated that one or more of the fin portions can be attached to the outer surfaces 16 a, 18 a.

The first and second profiles 26, 32 are releasably engageable with each other to provide a reclosable seal to the package 10. An optional breakable element 12 that initially extends from the first fin portion 28 to the second fin portion 34 can be used. The breakable element 12 of FIG. 1 is depicted with an optional one-time breakable preferential area of weakness or preferential tear area 38 to form a one-time breakable tamper evident feature. It is not necessary that the breakable element 12 have the one-time breakable preferential area of weakness 38. For example, in some embodiments, the breakable element 12 includes a resealable adhesive or cohesive seal. The one-time breakable preferential area of weakness 38 can be a score line, a series of perforations, or a highly oriented region. Additionally, the preferential area of weakness 38 can be made in a manner to separate by cutting therethrough. The preferential area of weakness 38 inhibits tampering with the reclosable package 10 prior to being opened.

The reclosable package 10 can further include an optional slider mechanism 36 (FIG. 2) slidably mounted to the fastener 14 for movement between a closed position and an open position. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the first and second profiles 26, 32 are engaged to each other while the slider mechanism 36 is in the closed position, and movement of the slider mechanism 36 from the closed position to the open position disengages the profiles 26, 32 from each other.

The package 10 of FIG. 2 also includes end terminations 37. End terminations can have various purposes such as (a) preventing or inhibiting the slider mechanism 36 from going past the ends of the fastener 14, (b) interacting with the slider 36 to give a tactile indication of being closed, (c) assisting in inhibiting or preventing leakage from the package 10, and (d) holding the first and second profiles 26, 32 together and providing additional strength in resisting stresses applied to the profiles 26, 32 during normal use of the package 10. Further details concerning the construction and operation of the slider mechanism 36 and the end terminations 37 can be obtained from U.S. Pat. No. 5,067,208 to Herrington, Jr. et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

It is contemplated that other end terminations can be used instead of the above-described end terminations 37. For example, an end weld can be formed by heated bars pressed against the end of the fastener, ultrasonic welding, or other ways known in the art.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the reclosable package 10 of the present invention is opened by having a consumer grip the slider mechanism 36 and move it such that the first and second profiles 26, 32 of the respective first and second tracks 24, 30 are detached from each other. Next, the consumer tears open the breakable element 12 (if present) along the preferential area of weakness 38. Alternatively, the consumer may open the breakable element 12, if used, by cutting therethrough. The package can be resealed utilizing the fastener 14 and slider mechanism 36. Specifically, the consumer grips the slider mechanism 36 and moves it from the open position to the closed position so as to engage the complementary first and second profiles 26, 32.

A one-time breakable element 12 not only provides a consumer with the assurance that a newly purchased package has not been opened before, but also provides a good initial seal that preserves the freshness of the perishable contents of the package prior to its initial opening and can inhibit or prevent the active agent from being activated by an activation-triggering condition, such as moisture. Since the reclosable closure arrangements of FIG. 1 are located above the one-time breakable element, (i.e., the reclosable closure arrangement is further from the interior space), the operation of the reclosable closure arrangement is not hampered by the presence of the one-time breakable element.

Connected to the first body panel inner surface 16 b is the agent structure 50 that contains at least one active agent as schematically depicted in FIG. 1. The active agent can include a substance known to provide a desired function or effect on a package or contents thereof. In some embodiments, the active agent includes a freshness-extension agent, which functions to extend the life or freshness of food products or other perishables disposed in the package. In other embodiments, the active agent includes an odor management agent, which functions to mask, neutralize, and/or reduce an undesirable odor or to produce an aromatic odor in the package.

The agent structure 50 can be provided in a form and structure suitable for the desired effect of the agent and the structure of the package. For example, in some embodiments, the agent structure 50 can be in the form of a coating, a patch, a tape, a pouch, a combination thereof, or in any other form that can be incorporated or integrated into the structure of the package 10. The selection of a coating, patch, or pouch, or tape is often dependent on the type of active agent being used. For example, an active agent in a powder form (e.g., minerals containing chemistry) can be placed in an air-permeable pouch, rather than a patch because it is often difficult to embed powders in a patch. Alternatively, an active agent in a powder form can be dusted onto a component of the package, such as a body panel. Non-limiting examples of powdery active agents that can be incorporated into the agent structure 50 include perlite, calcium carbonate, kaolin, and ASEPTROL® antimicrobial manufactured by Engelhard.

If a tape or patch is used to support the agent structure 50, the tape or patch can include an adhesive, a patch-like component, and/or a release system such as a slip additive which assists in inhibiting or preventing the agent structure from sticking to the adhesive. For example, the release system can be located on a surface of the tape or patch that is located distally from the surface that contacts the body panel to which the tape or patch is to be attached, so that sticking is inhibited or prevented when the package is wound into a roll. Materials such as siloxane and glycerol monostearate can be among the components of such a release system.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the active agent can be extruded with the body panel 16. For example, the active agent can be blended into the body panel material in oil or powder form, or can be distributed in the form of microcapsules in the material of the body panel 16. In a preferred embodiment, the active agent is microencapsulated prior to being integrated into the package structure. Microencapsulation encloses the active agent within a polymeric material that can withstand heat during package processing and manufacturing, but which degrades, dissolves, or otherwise breaks open and releases the active agent upon contact with pre-determined environmental factors such as moisture. The active agent can be encapsulated into microcapsules, and the microcapsules can be interspersed with the molten material of the body panel and extruded into body panel 16 during bulk production.

The body panel 16 can be otherwise impregnated with the active agent. It is also contemplated that the active agent can be sprayed, brushed, coated, laminated, stamped, or otherwise applied onto the body panel 16.

In some embodiments, the active agent includes one or more freshness-extension agents. The freshness-extension agent can be, for example, a natural oil, an anti-microbial, a modified atmosphere, or another substance that can extend the freshness or shelf life of food products or other perishables. For example, some non-limiting examples of freshness-extension ingredients include isothiocyanate such as allyl isothiocyanate (AIT) from natural sources, d-limonene, eugenol, allicin, isothymol, thymol, chlorine dioxide, hydrogen peroxide, sodium percarbonate, ascorbic acid, citric acid, cinnamic aldehyde, mustard, cinnamon, peppermint, spearmint, triclosan, Chinese chive (Allium tuberosum), cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia), comi fructus (Cornus officinalis), allyl cyanide, 1-cyano-2,3-epithiopropane, allyl thiocyanate, Lactobacillus reuteri, methyl isothiocyanate, cinnamon bark oil, lemon grass oil, thyme oil, methyl jasmonate, tea tree oil, ethyl alcohol, Salicylaldehyde, carvacrol, cymene, essential oil extracts of various onions, essential oil extract of garlic, berry phenolic extracts from cranberry, cloudberry, raspberry, strawberry, and bilberry, ellagitannins from cranberry, cloudberry, raspberry, strawberry, and bilberry, essential oils from nutmeg, mint, clove, oregano, cinnamon, sassafras, sage, thyme and rosemary, vanillin, vanillyl alcohol, vanillic acid, diacetyl, natural honey, fluorine dioxide, carbon dioxide, modified atmospheres and combinations thereof. The modified atmosphere can include nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and combination thereof.

AIT, which can be naturally obtained from plants or perishables such as mustard and wasabi, is particularly advantageous as a freshness-extension agent for its anti-microbial properties. Preferably, the AIT is produced from plants such as mustard, which contains glucosinolate and myrosinase enzyme. Myrosinase and glucosinolate react with each other to produce AIT and, because the reaction involves hydrolysis, humidity activates AIT production. AIT has been shown to exhibit anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties and, as it is released in a gaseous form throughout the package atmosphere, it enhances the atmosphere so as to inhibit bacterial growth and therefore extend perishable freshness. Hence, AIT-producing products, including wasabi, horseradish and mustard in various forms, such as extract, powder, oil, or ground seed, can be used as the freshness-extension agent in embodiments of the present invention.

In some embodiments, an AIT-containing freshness-extension agent can also be used in combination with another functional agent. For example, in one such embodiment, AIT is combined with an acid, which greatly enhances the production of AIT from mustard and, thus, the anti-microbial effect of mustard. Thus, if ground mustard seed is used as the freshness-extension agent, it can be combined, in a desired ratio, with anhydrous acid such as anhydrous citric acid for increased AIT production and, thus, enhanced freshness-extension function.

The freshness-extension agent can also provide other enhancement functions, and therefore can be used for such other purposes. In some embodiments, the freshness-extension agent can include a freshness component for extending food freshness and an odor component for masking, reducing, and/or neutralizing only a pungent odor of the freshness component, but not other odors of the contents stored in a package. Preferably, the odor component does not mask the odors of the contents stored in the package, such as food odors or food spoilage odors, so that decay or spoilage of the contents can be detected by smell. For example, a freshness-extension agent including an AIT freshness component can also include a fragrant component, such as vanilla, cinnamon, or citrus oil, which can mask the pungent odor of AIT, but not mask or otherwise affect the odor of the stored contents. Preferably, the freshness-extension agent does not impart its own organoleptic properties to the stored contents, and thus permits a user to readily detect decay or spoilage of stored contents by smell.

Alternatively, in some embodiments, the agent structure 50 includes one or more odor management agents. Advantageously, the odor management agent can be incorporated into packages configured for collecting garbage or waste to mask, neutralize, and/or reduce undesirable odors. Alternatively, the odor management agent can be used to provide or create an odor to a package. An odor management agent can thus be incorporated into thermoplastic bags or liners and other containers, such as garbage or waste bags, diaper containers, laundry bags, storage bags, and disposable medical bags or containers.

Non-limiting examples of odor management agents include AIT, d-limonene, mustard, natural oils, chlorine dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, ammonia, citronella, pine, flowery, and substituted esters such as METAZENE®.

A preferred embodiment of an odor management agent includes AIT, which agent can be provided by incorporating, for example, mustard in the agent structure 50. Mustard, whether in the form of ground mustard seed, powder, oil, or paste, can be provided alone or in combination with an acid (such as citric acid) to catalyze the production of AIT from mustard and enhance the anti-microbial and odor management properties of the mustard. Because of its effectiveness in extending perishable freshness as previously described herein, AIT can provide multiple functions when incorporated into a perishable package, e.g., AIT can perform both freshness-extension and odor-management functions.

In some embodiments, the odor management agent can include an additional ingredient for providing a pleasant or desired odor or scent to a user. For example, a natural oil such as lemon grass oil can be used to manage odors emanating from a package, to mask the odor of the primary odor management agent itself, or to make the odor of the odor management more pleasant to a user. It has been shown that a composition comprising ground mustard seed and anhydrous citric acid mixed with about 5% by weight of lemon grass oil is particularly effective at managing unpleasant odors.

If an agent structure 50 includes an aromatic or perfumery ingredient for providing a desired scent to a package, an additional material for enhancing scent concentration in the interior of the package can be included. For example, the agent structure 50 can include perlite to increase the scent concentration. Perlite is desirable for use because of its ability to retain scent, its stability, and its surface area. Non-limiting examples of other materials for enhancing scent include microspheres, talc, silicon, silicate such as aluminum silicate, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, or combinations thereof.

Further in accordance with the invention, the agent structure 50 can be provided with an activation system that is triggered when the reclosable package is opened or filled with contents. The activation system can be mechanical in nature, such as a perforation or a peel apart system that once separated initiates the release of the active agent. Another activation method can be based on the humidity or moisture level that is present in the package (e.g., which correlates to water activity of the contents). For example, a high amount of humidity can initiate a chemical or other reaction that subsequently releases a volatile chemical such as carbon dioxide or chlorine dioxide. In such an example, a greater amount of active agent is added when the humidity is higher in the reclosable package. Examples of reactions that are activated by a high humidity level are salt and acid reactions, such as sodium bicarbonate and citric acid, or sodium hypochlorite and citric acid. The release of AIT is also aided by humidity as previously explained. In such examples, a greater amount of active agent is released into the package atmosphere when the humidity increases.

During a method of operation of a reclosable package with a humidity-activated freshness extension agent, for example, perishables are placed in the interior of the package, and the humidity or moisture level in the perishables activates the freshness-extension agent. Additionally, if the agent structure is disposed proximate the mouth of a bag-like package or proximate the rim of a container-like package, selective activation or release can be accomplished. For example, the humidity or moisture level of the perishables can activate the agent as the perishables travel in the vicinity of the agent (e.g., through the mouth or past the rim of the package during the initial placement of the perishable products into the interior), while the perishable products remain disposed in the interior, and upon entry of air into the interior (e.g., during an opening of the package). Disposing the agent structure proximate the mouth or rim of a package can also be advantageous when maximum display of the contents is desired in a transparent package.

A humidity activation method can further be controlled by providing a barrier layer material. For example, it is preferable that the body panels provide a barrier layer or be formed of a barrier material so as to create an enclosed environment to prevent or inhibit the introduction of humidity and the release of active agent when the package is closed. As used herein, the terms “barrier layer” and “barrier material” include layers or materials that inhibit or otherwise control the release of an active agent into a package atmosphere, rather than layers or materials that completely block or prevent such release.

An example of such a material is polyethylene glycol (PEG) incorporated into low density polyethylenes (LDPE). Other materials providing a barrier to transfer of water, water vapor, oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, ethylene, volatile or non-volatile active agents include but are not limited to polymers, copolymers, blends, extrusions, co-extrusions, coatings, metalization or laminations of: low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), linear medium-density polyethylene (LMDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), very low density polyethylene (VLDPE), metallocene (mPE), polypropylene (PP), oriented polypropylene (OPP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate (ASA), acrylonitrile-EPDM-styrene (AES), ASA/AES copolymers, polyamide 6, polyamide 66 and their copolyamides, poly vinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), thermoplastic polyester (TPE), ethylene/ethyl acrylate (EEA), ethylene/vinyl acetate (EVA), polystyrene (PS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), modified polystyrene, ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVAL or EVOH), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyamides, polyacrylic acid (PAA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), saran, ceramic filled polymers, nanocomposite polymers, polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), acrylonitrile-methyl acrylate (AC-MA), polyphenylene ether (PPB), polyphenylene oxide (PPO), thermoplastic elastomer, cellophane, nylon, polycarbonate (PC), modified polyolefins with barrier properties, cyclic olefin copolymeres, polyacrylonitriles, acrylonitrile copolymers, polyacetals, modified polyesters, acrylic derivatives, and inorganic barrier coatings.

It is also contemplated that other barrier materials such as foils and metallized polymers such as metallized oriented polypropylenes (OPP) can be used. The barrier layer is substantially impermeable to at least water vapor and active agents, and, in some embodiments, also to oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide, or combinations thereof. The barrier layer thus inhibits or prevents water vapor (and, in some embodiments, oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide) from entering the interior of the package, while inhibiting or preventing the active agent from escaping the interior of the package. An example of a cyclic olefin copolymer that can be used in forming the barrier layer is TOPAS® 8007. Useful cyclic olefin copolymers are believed to be available from several companies. For example, Ticona, a business of Celanese AG, in Summit N.J. has cyclic olefin copolymers available. Other companies that are believed to have cyclic olefin copolymers available include Nippon Zeon (Japan), Mitsui Chemical (Japan) and JSR (Japan), formerly know as Japan Synthetic Rubber. Ticona, a business of Celanese AG, has commercially available cyclic olefin copolymers (COCs) under the designation TOPAS®. These cyclic olefin copolymers are believed to be prepared with feedstocks of norbornene and ethylene and the use of a metallocene catalyst. There are believed to be at least four grades of TOPAS® resins available (TOPAS® 8007, TOPAS® 6013, TOPAS® 6015 and TOPAS® 6017). The four grades of TOPAS® resins available have glass transition temperatures, T_(g), of 80, 140, 160 and 180° C., respectively. The corresponding norbornene levels of the four grades of TOPAS® resins are 35, 48, 55 and 59 mole %.

The agent structure 50 can be made of polymeric materials including thermoplastic materials. Alternatively, if formed as part of the package, a polymeric matrix layer can be provided for impregnating or supporting a microencapsulated active agent into a component of the package, e.g., a body panel. The matrix layer of the agent structure 50 can be made of polyolefinic materials such as polyethylenes, polypropylenes, polystyrenes, and combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of the matrix layer materials include polymers, copolymers or blends of: low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), linear medium-density polyethylene (LMDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), very low density polyethylene (VLDPE), metallocene (mPE), polypropylene (PP), polyamide 6 polyamide 66 and their copolyamide, poly vinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic, thermoplastic polyester (TPE), ethylene/vinyl acetate (EVA), polystyrene (PS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), modified polystyrene, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyamides, polyacrylic acid (PAA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyphenylene ether (PPE), thermoplastic elastomer, and cellulose and filled plastics. These materials generally provide a good barrier to water vapor, but allow permeation of oxygen and active agents. It may be desirable to have a patch, tape, or pouch that comprises polyethylene because of its recyclability. Another example of a material that can be used to form a patch, tape, or pouch structures is ethyl methyl acrylate (EMA). A surface of the patch, tape, or pouch can be formed of a porous non-woven material (e.g., gauze) that allows the active agent such as freshness extension or odor management agent to be released. For odor management, one of the layers of the odor management structure can further include a fragrance (e.g., a liquid fragrance), a scent-enhancing mineral, and/or a polymeric resin (e.g., LLDPE).

As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, the amount of agent to be used in combination with a package will depend on the environment in which the agent is in use, e.g., the loss and release rates of the agent. The release rate refers to the rate at which the agent is released into the interior of the package, and the loss rate refers to the rate at which the released agent escapes from the interior of the package. Preferably, the agents of the present invention are disposed in amounts such that the release rate of the agent is greater than the loss rate of the agent during a pre-determined “shelf life” or duration of use, so that the presence of agent in the interior of a package is replenished faster than it is lost, thus ensuring effective performance of the agent. The loss rate of the agent depends upon a variety of factors related to package design, construction, and use.

It is contemplated that additional layers can be added to the coating, patch, pouch, or tape. For example, a barrier layer can be added to assist in keeping the freshness-extension agent in communication with the interior of the reclosable package and, thus, assist in preventing or inhibiting the freshness-extension agent from permeating through the body panel.

For example, and with reference to the package embodiment of FIG. 1, each of the opposing body panels 16, 18 forms a barrier layer that is substantially impermeable to at least water vapor and active agents and, in some embodiments, also to oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, or combinations thereof. The opposing body panels 16, 18 thus can include, i.e., be at least partially formed from one or more of, the foregoing materials. The opposing body panels 16, 18 can include barrier layers located on exterior and/or interior surfaces of the packages.

For purposes of illustration, the disclosed packages of the present invention will now be further described herein with respect to freshness-extension agents. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the disclosed packages can be suitably modified to include other types of active agents.

In one such embodiment, the barrier layer can be located on an inner surface of a freshness-extension structure as shown in, for example, FIG. 3 a. In FIG. 3 a, one side of a package 210 is depicted with a body panel 212 that includes a freshness-extension structure 214, and a second body panel (not shown in FIG. 3a). The freshness-extension agent of the freshness-extension structure 214 is in communication with the interior space, while one surface of the freshness-extension structure 214 is attached to a surface 212 a of the body panel 212 via an adhesive, a heat seal, or a weld, e.g., an ultrasonic weld. It is contemplated that other attachment methods can be used. For example, the freshness-extension structure can be attached to at least one surface of the body panels using mechanical methods such as clips or staples. Thus, the freshness-extension structure can be provided as a coextrusion structure or as a laminate. Alternatively, it can be coated on a layer of film.

One example depicted in FIG. 3 b includes a reclosable package 230 comprising a first body panel 212, a second body panel (not shown in FIG. 3 b), and a freshness-extension structure 234. The structure 234 comprises a first layer 216 that is a barrier layer and a second polymeric layer 218 that includes a freshness-extension agent. The first layer 216 can be a polymeric barrier layer using one of the previously mentioned barrier materials. One example of a polymer that can be used in the second polymeric layer 218 is a polyolefin such as a linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE). An outer surface 216 a of the first layer 216 of FIG. 3 b is attached to an inner surface 212 a of the first body panel 212. The second polymeric layer 218 is directly adjacent to the first layer 216 so that the freshness-extension agent is in communication with the interior space. Depending on the materials that form the first and second layers 216, 218, it may not be necessary to adhesively attach the layers together. Rather, for example, the first and second layers can be co-extruded together if the materials for forming the first and second layers are compatible.

It is also contemplated that information can be printed on the freshness-extension structure 234 such as on the barrier layer. It is contemplated that the printing can occur on different locations of the structure. For enhanced visibility and readability of the printing, it may be desirable to print on the surface of the freshness-extension structure that is closest to the body panel when the structure is located in the interior of the reclosable package. For example, in FIG. 3 b, the printing would be desirably located between the first body panel 212 and the first layer 216. If adhesive is used to attach the first layer 216 of FIG. 3 b to the surface 212 a, then the printing can be located between the adhesive and the first layer 216. It is contemplated that other attachment methods can be used such as a heat seal or mechanical methods.

Referring to FIG. 3 c, a reclosable package 250 comprises a first body panel 212, a second body panel (not shown in FIG. 3 c), and a freshness-extension structure 254 in the form of a patch or tape. It is contemplated that the structure can be in the form of a pouch or a coating. The freshness-extension structure 254 comprises a first layer 216 that is a barrier layer, and a second polymeric layer 218 that includes a freshness-extension agent, and a third polymeric layer 220 that is a diffusion layer. The first layer 216, as discussed above, can be a polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer 218 that includes the freshness-extension agent is located between the first and third layers 216, 220. One example of a polymer that can be used in the second polymeric layer 218 is a polyolefin, such as a linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE). The freshness-extension agent is in communication with the interior space of the reclosable package via the third polymeric layer 220 that is permeable. Thus, the third polymeric layer 220 controls the permeability and must be permeable to the extent that the freshness-extension agent can enter the interior of the reclosable package therethrough.

It is contemplated that the third polymeric layer 220 can comprise a cyclic olefin copolymer. The third polymer layer can comprise from about 10 to about 80 wt. % or, more specifically, from about 20 to about 40 wt. % cyclic olefin copolymer to assist in reducing curling of the polymeric structure. While not being bound by theory, curling tends to be caused when the materials forming the polymeric-structure layers are not as compatible with each other because of, for example, their different shrink rates. The barrier layer can comprise a more crystalline material that does not shrink much, if any, over time as compared to the diffusion layer that can comprise a material, such as polyethylene, that tends to shrink over time. The disadvantage of such structure curl is that the edges tend to curl in a transverse direction upon itself and therefore cause processing problems. The curling of the polymeric structure can be reduced or inhibited by using a cyclic olefin copolymer in the third polymeric layer, whereby the first layer and the third polymeric layer become more compatible. The addition of a cyclic olefin copolymer to the third polymeric layer 220 also slows the permeation of the freshness extension agent into the interior of the reclosable package 250.

As discussed above, it is contemplated that the freshness-extension structure 254 of FIG. 3 c can have a release agent (e.g., a slip additive) that assists in preventing or inhibiting the polymeric structure from sticking to itself. It is also contemplated that information can be printed on the structure 254. The first layer 216 can be attached to the surface of the body panel(s) via an adhesive, heat seal or other methods.

Referring to FIG. 3 d, a reclosable package 270 comprises a first body panel 212, a second body panel (not shown in FIG. 3 d), and a freshness-extension structure 274 in the form of a patch or tape. It is contemplated that the structure 274 can be a pouch. The freshness-extension structure 274 comprises a first layer 216 being a barrier layer, and a second polymeric layer 219 being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent. The freshness-extension agent must be able to communicate with the interior space of the reclosable package or bag. The first layer 216 can be attached to the body panel 212 via an adhesive, a heat seal, a weld, or other methods.

The reclosable package can include more than one freshness-extension structure that includes a freshness-extension agent therein. For example, the reclosable package can include two or three freshness-extension structures that each contain a freshness-extension agent.

A freshness-extension structure (e.g., a freshness-extension agent containing patch, tape, pouch, or coating) can vary in size and is dependent on factors such as the desired amount of freshness-extension, the particular freshness-extension agent being used, the number of freshness-extension structures being used in the reclosable package, and the size of the reclosable package. The dimensions of the freshness-extension structure are generally from about ½ inch or 1 inch to about 12 inches. Non-limiting examples of freshness-extension structure dimensions include ½ inch×1 inch, 1 inch by 1 inch, ½ inch×2 inches, 1 inch×6 inches, 2×4 inches, and 4×12 inches. The thicknesses of the freshness-extension structures can vary in the present invention but are generally less than about 20 mils, preferably from about 12 to 16 mils, and more preferably from about 14 to 15 mils.

According to another embodiment, the freshness-extension structure of the reclosable package is delivered in a non-woven matrix. The non-woven matrix can be impregnated after the non-woven matrix has been formed. The impregnation of the non-woven matrix can be accomplished by a freshness-extension agent coating. Alternatively, the non-woven matrix can be initially formed with the freshness-extension agent therein. According to a further embodiment, the freshness-extension agent of the reclosable package can be micro-encapsulated in a freshness-extension structure.

The freshness-extension structure being a patch, tape, pouch, or coating in one embodiment is located in the interior of a reclosable package or bag, such as the reclosable package 10. For example in FIG. 3 a, a partial cross-sectional view of one side of the reclosable package 210 is depicted with the body panel 212 and the freshness-extension structure 214. The structure 214 is attached to an interior surface 212 a of the body panel 212 in which the interior surface 212 a forms an interior portion of the reclosable package 210.

Alternatively, the freshness-extension structure being a coating, patch, pouch, or tape can be located on an exterior surface of an article or within layers of an article such that the freshness-extension agent is able to permeate into or communicate with the interior of the reclosable package. For example, the freshness-extension structure being a coating, patch, pouch, or tape can be located on an exterior surface of a reclosable package in which a portion of the body panel is removed such that the freshness-extension agent from the freshness-extension structure can permeate into the interior of the reclosable package. For example, referring to FIG. 4, a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package 310 is shown with a freshness-extension structure 314 attached to an exterior surface 316 a of a body panel 316. The body panel 316 has at least one opening 318 that allows the freshness-extension agent from the freshness-extension structure 314 to permeate into the interior of the reclosable package 310. The opening(s) 318 can be one large opening or a plurality of smaller openings that extends from and through the body panel 316 of the reclosable package 310. The opening(s) 318 can be formed by processes known in the art including a perforation process.

In another example, FIG. 5 depicts a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag 410. The reclosable package or bag 410 comprises an exterior layer 412, a freshness-extension structure 414, and an interior layer 416 with opening(s) 418. The freshness-extension structure 414 is located between and attached to the exterior layer 412 and the interior layer 416. The opening(s) 418 allows the freshness-extension agent from the structure 414 to be in communication with the interior of the reclosable package or bag 410.

It is contemplated that a layer of a reclosable package can be permeable to the freshness-extension agent of the freshness-extension structure such that the freshness-extension agent is in communication with the interior of the reclosable package. FIG. 6 depicts such an example where a partial cross-sectional view of a reclosable package 510 is shown. The reclosable package 510 comprises a freshness-extension structure 514 and a diffusion layer 516. The diffusion layer 516 allows the freshness-extension agent from the freshness-extension structure 514 to enter the interior of the reclosable package.

The diffusion layer 516 can be made of a suitable material that allows the freshness-extension agent to reach the interior of the reclosable package in a relatively quick fashion. Thus, materials providing permeation of water, water vapor, oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, ethylene, volatile actives or nonvolatile active agents can be used for the diffusion layer. Examples of a diffusion layer 516 include polymers, copolymers, blends, extrusions, co-extrusions, coatings or laminations of: low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), very low density polyethylene (VLDPE), metallocene (mPE), polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyamide 6, polyamide 66 and their copolyamides, poly vinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), thermoplastic polyester (TPE), ethylene/ethyl acrylate (EEA), ethylene/vinyl acetate (EVA), polystyrene (PS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), modified polystyrene, ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVAL or EVOH), polyacrylic acid (PAA), polylactic acid (PLA), filled polymers, hydrophilic nanocomposite polymers, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), thermoplastic elastomers, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polymethylpentene (PMP), polyvinyl acetate (PVA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL), and cellulose acetate (CA), all of which have general affinity for moisture.

As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, the same type of polymer material can be used in forming either the matrix, barrier, or diffusion layer, depending on the percentage ratio of the material in the layer composition, the quantity of the material in the layer composition (e.g., the thickness of the layer composition), and/or the method of fabrication. Thus, the use of a particular polymer material as a component for the matrix, barrier, or diffusion layer depends on its amount and manner of use.

FIG. 7 depicts another embodiment with a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package 530 that includes an additional layer (exterior layer 512) as compared to the reclosable package 510 of FIG. 6.

It is contemplated that additional layers can be added in forming the reclosable packages shown in FIGS. 3-7. For example, an ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) copolymer or polyvinylidene chloride layer (PVDC) can be used in forming the body panels of the reclosable package, or in forming a barrier layer of the package. Such a barrier layer assists in keeping the freshness extension ingredient in communication with the interior of the reclosable package. Other layers, such as a freshness-extension enhancing layer, are also contemplated. A freshness-extension enhancing layer can operate to enhance delivery of the freshness extension agent with increasing humidity. Such a freshness-extension enhancing layer is particularly advantageous, since increased humidity often results in a corresponding increase in bacterial growth that leads to increased perishable spoiling. One example of a freshness extension enhancing layer is polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH).

The freshness-extension structure 214 can include a peelable cover. An example of such an embodiment is depicted in FIG. 8 where a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package 610 comprises a body panel 612, a freshness-extension structure 614, and a peelable cover 622. The peelable cover 622 covers at least a portion of the freshness-extension structure 614 and may cover the entire freshness-extension structure 614 that is exposed in the interior of the reclosable package 610. The peelable cover 622 prevents or inhibits the freshness-extension agent from escaping the freshness-extension structure 614 in its initial position shown in FIG. 8. The peelable cover can be attached to the body panel 612 and/or the freshness-extension structure 614. The peelable cover 622 is removed by a user from the freshness-extension structure 614 to enhance or begin the release of the freshness-extension agent from the freshness-extension structure 614. Typically, the removal of the peelable cover 622 by the user occurs when a package is going to have perishable placed into it. One example of the peelable cover 622 is a barrier layer such as EVOH or PVDC. It is contemplated that a peelable cover can be used with any of the freshness-extension structures that are in the form of a patch, tape, or pouch.

According to one embodiment, a reclosable package is adapted to store items and comprises a first thermoplastic body panel, a second thermoplastic body panel, and at least one polymeric freshness-extension structure adapted to extend the freshness of items by increasing the time items can be stored in the article without spoiling. The first and second body panels are joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides so as to form an open mouth. The joined first and second body panels form an interior space for storing items. The polymeric freshness-extension structure is attached to a surface of one or more the first and second body panels and is in communication with the interior space. The freshness-extension structure further includes a peelable cover in which the peelable cover is adapted to initially cover at least a portion of the polymeric freshness-extension structure.

According to another embodiment, a reclosable package can be used that includes two freshness-extension structures. For example, referring to FIG. 9 a, a reclosable package 710 comprises a first thermoplastic body panel 712, a second thermoplastic body panel (not shown in FIG. 9 a) a first freshness-extension structure 714 a, and a second freshness-extension structure 714 b. As discussed above, the first and second body panels are joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides so as to form an open mouth. The joined first and second body panels form an interior space for storing items.

The first freshness-extension structure 714 a comprises two layers and is a patch or tape. It is contemplated that the first and second freshness-extension structures can form a pouch. The first freshness-extension structure 714 a comprises a first layer 716 a being a barrier layer, and a second polymeric layer 719 a being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent. The first layer 716 a can be a polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer 719 a is directly adjacent to the first layer 716 a. The first layer 716 a is shown in FIG. 9 a as being attached to the first body panel 712 via an adhesive, heat seal or other methods.

Similarly, the second freshness-extension structure 714 b comprises two layers and is a patch or tape. The second freshness-extension structure 714 b comprises a third layer 716 b being a barrier layer, and a fourth polymeric layer 719 b being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent. The fourth polymeric layer 719 b is directly adjacent to the third layer 716 b. The third layer 716 b can be a polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer 719 a is releasably heat sealed at selected locations to the fourth polymeric layer 719 b such that the respective freshness-extension agent permeates into the interior of the reclosable package 710 via interior area 717.

The interior area 717 can be formed by having the first and second freshness-extension structures 714 a,b curl with respect to each other. As shown in FIG. 9 a, the interior area 717 is formed between the second and fourth polymeric layers 719 a, b. A slight curl of the freshness-extension structures enables the freshness-extension agent to be in communication with the interior of the reclosable package. It is desirable to have some curl in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 9 a to assist in enabling the freshness-extension agent to be in communication with the interior of the reclosable package or bag. As discussed above, the curling of the freshness-extension structures can be formed from using materials for forming the freshness-extension structures that are less compatible (i.e., the shrink rates of the materials differ).

It is contemplated that additional layers can be used in forming the two freshness-extension structures. For example, in FIG. 9 b, a reclosable package 730 comprises a first thermoplastic body panel 712, a second thermoplastic body panel (not shown in FIG. 9 b), a first freshness-extension structure 734 a, and a second freshness-extension structure 734 b. The first and second body panels are joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides so as to form an open mouth. The joined first and second body panels form an interior space for storing items.

The first freshness-extension structure 734 a comprises three layers and is a patch or tape. It is contemplated that the first and second freshness-extension structures can form a pouch or a coating. The first freshness-extension structure 734 a comprises a first layer 716 a being a barrier layer, a second polymeric layer 718 a comprising a freshness-extension agent, and a third polymeric 720 a being a diffusion layer. The first layer 716 a can be a polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer 718 a is located between the first and third layers 716 a, 720 a. The first layer 716 a is shown in FIG. 9 b as being attached to the first body panel 712 via an adhesive or heat seal such that the freshness-extension agent is in communication with the interior space. It is contemplated that other attaching methods can be used such as mechanical devices like clips or staples.

Similarly, the second freshness-extension structure 734 b comprises three layers and is a patch or tape. The second thermoplastic freshness-extension structure 734 b comprises a fourth layer 716 b being a barrier layer, a fifth polymeric layer 718 b comprising a freshness-extension agent, and a sixth polymeric layer 720 b being a diffusion layer. The fourth layer 716 b can be a polymeric layer. The fifth polymeric layer 718 b is located between the fourth and sixth polymeric layers 716 b, 720 b. The third polymeric layer 720 a is heat sealed at selected locations to the sixth polymeric layer 720 b such that the respective freshness-extension agent of the second polymeric layer 718 a and the fifth polymeric layer 718 b is adapted to enter the interior space of the reclosable package between the third polymeric layer 720 a and the sixth polymeric layer 720 b.

As discussed above, an interior area 727 can be formed by having the first and second freshness-extension structures 734 a,b curl with respect to each other. As shown in FIG. 9 b, the interior area 727 is formed between the third and sixth polymeric layers 720 a, b.

According to another embodiment, a reclosable package 810 is shown in FIG. 10 a comprising a first thermoplastic body panel 812 a, a second thermoplastic body panel 812 b, a first freshness-extension structure 814 a, and a second freshness-extension structure 814 b. The first and second body panels 812 a, 812 b are joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides so as to form an open mouth. The joined first and second body panels form an interior space for storing items.

The first freshness-extension structure 814 a comprises two layers and is a patch or tape. It is contemplated that the first and second freshness-extension structures can be in the form of a pouch. The first freshness-extension structure 814 a comprises a first layer 816 a being a barrier layer, and a second polymeric layer 819 a being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent. The first layer 816 a can be a polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer 819 a is directly adjacent to the first layer 816 a. The first layer 816 a is shown in FIG. 10 a as being attached to the first body panel 812 a via an adhesive or heat seal. It is contemplated that other attachment methods may be used. To adhere to the first body panel 812 a, the first layer 816 a can include a coating that is not sticky or tacky at room temperature. Such a coating may become sticky, for example, at higher temperatures, or upon exposure to infrared radiation or heat.

Similarly, the second freshness-extension structure 814 b comprises two layers and is a patch or tape. The second freshness-extension structure 814 b comprises a third layer 816 b being a barrier layer, and a fourth polymeric layer 819 b being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent. The third layer 816 b can be a polymeric layer. The fourth polymeric layer 819 b is directly adjacent to the third layer 816 b. The third layer 816 b is shown in FIG. 10 a as being attached to the second body panel 812 b via an adhesive or heat seal. It is contemplated that other attachment methods may be used. To adhere to the second body panel 812 b, the third layer 816 b may include a coating that is not sticky or tacky at room temperature. Such a coating may become s sticky, for example, at higher temperatures, or upon exposure to infrared radiation or heat.

It is contemplated that the first freshness-extension structure and the second freshness-extension structure can be formed of different compositions. For example, the first structure can include a first freshness-extension agent, while the second structure may be a second freshness-extension agent. In forming such an embodiment, the first and second freshness-extension structures can, for example, be formed by extruding two different patches, tapes, pouches, or by applying two different coatings.

Alternatively, the reclosable package can be formed by other than two or more layer structures. For example, a barrier layer need not be provided if the body panels 812 are formed of a suitable material to define a barrier layer. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 10 b, a reclosable package 830 includes a first freshness-extension structure 834 a that comprises a first layer 816 a that comprises a freshness-extension agent, and a second polymeric layer 818 a that is a diffusion layer. The reclosable package 830 also includes a second freshness-extension structure 834 b that comprises a third layer 816 b that comprises a freshness-extension agent, and a fourth polymeric layer 818 b that is a diffusion layer. It is contemplated that the first and second freshness-extension structures can be made of different compositions, such as being made of different freshness-extension agents or diffusion layers.

According to yet another embodiment, the reclosable package can be formed by three of more layers. For example, as shown in FIG. 10 c, a reclosable package 850 includes a first freshness-extension structure 854 a that comprises a first layer 816 a that is a barrier layer, a second polymeric layer 818 a that comprises a freshness-extension agent, and a third polymeric layer 820 a that is a diffusion layer. The reclosable package 850 includes a second freshness-extension structure 854 b that comprises a fourth layer 816 b that is a barrier layer, a fifth polymeric layer 818 b that comprises a freshness-extension agent, and a sixth polymeric layer 820 b that is a diffusion layer. The first and second freshness-extension structures 854 a,b are attached to first and second body panels 812 a, 812 b, respectively, via an adhesive or heat seal. It is contemplated that the first and second structures can be made of different compositions, such as being made of different barrier materials or freshness-extension agents.

As previously described, the freshness-extension agents of the present invention can contain an activation system that is triggered by a user opening a reclosable package or placing contents therein. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown and described with respect to FIG. 8, the activation system of the freshness-extension agents of the present invention is mechanical in nature. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 8, the activation system includes a perforation or a peel-apart system which, once separated, initiates the release of the freshness-extension agent.

In accordance with another such aspect of the invention, a reclosable package 910 is shown in FIG. 11 a comprising a first thermoplastic body panel 912 a, a second thermoplastic body panel 912 b, and a freshness-extension structure 914 disposed therebetween. The first and second body panels 912 a, 912 b are joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides so as to form an open mouth. The joined first and second body panels form an interior space for storing items. The freshness-extension structure 914 can be in the form of a patch or tape as embodied herein, and comprises three layers. Particularly, the freshness-extension structure 914 depicted in FIG. 11 a comprises a first layer 916 a being a barrier layer, a second polymeric layer 919 being a frangible diffusion layer with a freshness-extension agent, and a third layer 916 b being a barrier layer.

As shown in FIG. 11 a, the second layer 919 is a one-time breakable element extending between the first barrier layer 916 a and the second barrier layer 916 b. The one-time breakable element of the second layer 919 therefore inhibits or prevents the freshness-extension agent from escaping into the package while in its initial position shown in FIG. 11 a.

The one-time breakable element 921 can include one or more polymeric resins and polyolefins, and can be used with any of the previously-described freshness-extension structures. Polyolefins used as one-time breakable element include, but are not limited to, polyethylenes, polypropylenes, and combinations thereof. Some non-limiting types of polyethylenes include low density polyethylenes (LDPE), linear low density polyethylenes (LLDPE), high density polyethylenes (HDPE), medium density polyethylenes (MDPE) and combinations thereof. Other non-limiting examples include plastomers, elastomers, ethylene vinyl acetates (EVA), ethyl methacrylates, polymethylpentene copolymers, polyisobutylenes, polyolefin ionomers, cyclic olefin copolymers (COCs), or combinations thereof, including with polyethylenes and/or polypropylenes.

The one-time breakable element of the second layer 919 can include a one-time breakable preferential area of weakness or preferential tear area similar to the preferential areas of weakness or tear areas previously described herein or a one-time breakable adhesive or cohesive seal. Alternatively, the second layer 919 can be formed by selectively cross-linking the diffusion material to define the one-time breakable element. Generally, the bond between the second layer 919 and the adjacent layers must be stronger than the frangible portion of the one-time breakable element that joins portions 919 a and 919 b as described further below.

As shown in FIG. 1 b, breakage of the one-time breakable element divides the second layer 919 into a first portion 919 a and a second portion 919 b, each having a surface exposed, and thereby begins or enhances the release of freshness-extension agent thereto. Typically, breakage of the one-time breakable element by a user occurs when the package is initially opened to place contents therein.

In another such embodiment having a mechanical release mechanism, a reclosable package 1010 is shown in FIG. 12 a comprising a first thermoplastic body panel 1012 a, a second thermoplastic body panel 1012 b, a freshness-extension structure 1014, and a removable or peelable cover 1021. The first and second body panels 1012 a, 1012 b are joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides so as to form an open mouth. The joined first and second body panels form an interior space for storing items. The freshness-extension structure 1014 is in the form of a patch or tape and comprises two layers, e.g., a first layer 1016 being a barrier layer and a second polymeric layer 1019 being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent.

As shown in FIG. 12 a, the removable cover 1021 is similar to that of FIG. 8, but is securely attached to panel 1012 b. The removable cover 1021 covers at least a portion of the second layer 1019, and, as shown, preferably covers the entire second layer 1019 that is otherwise exposed in the interior of the package 1010. As shown in FIG. 12 b, removal of the cover 1021 exposes the freshness-extension layer 1019 to the interior of the package 1010 and thereby begins or enhances release of freshness-extension agent thereto at least while the package is open. This embodiment of FIGS. 12 a and 12 b is particularly suitable for waste bags and liners or the like.

Alternatively, in some embodiments, the removable cover 1021 can cooperate with a slider of the fastener of the reclosable package 1010, so that the removable cover can be removed from the freshness-extension layer when the reclosable package 1010 is opened via the slider.

The freshness-extension structures of the present invention, such as a patch, tape, or pouch, can be attached to a package such as a reclosable bag by a pressure-sensitive self-adhesive. The pressure-sensitive self-adhesive can be any suitable adhesive that attaches the freshness-extension structure to the reclosable package. Non-limiting examples of pressure-sensitive adhesives that can be used include acrylic or rubber-based adhesives.

The freshness-extension structure being a tape or pouch can be roll fed onto a layer(s) of the reclosable package. The roll-fed freshness-extension structure being a tape or pouch can also initially include a release liner that assists in preventing or inhibiting the freshness-extension agent from sticking to itself before delivery to the reclosable package. The release liner, if used, is separated from the roll-fed freshness-extension tape or pouch before the tape or pouch is attached to the reclosable package or bag. Examples of release liners include silicon-coated paper. Release liners, however, may be undesirable because of the additional cost associated therewith. It is contemplated that the freshness-extension structure can be roll fed without the use of a release liner before being attached to the reclosable package or bag.

Alternatively, the freshness-extension structure being a patch or pouch can be magazine fed during attachment to the reclosable package. The patch is preferably magazine fed, while the pouch can be magazine or roll fed. The tape is preferably roll fed during attachment to the reclosable package. For example, the tape can be unwound, cut to length and attached to the reclosable package.

According to another embodiment, the freshness-extension structure patch, tape, or pouch can be heat sealed or welded (e.g., ultrasonically welded) directly to the reclosable package or bag. The freshness extension structure can be roll fed or magazine fed before being heat sealed or welded to the reclosable package. In a heat-sealing embodiment, a release liner would not likely be used because the freshness-extension structure without any adhesive should not stick to itself and the release liner adds an unnecessary cost. The freshness-extension structure can be attached to the reclosable package at several locations. The freshness-extension structure can be attached to the body panels during the formation of the heat seals. For example, the freshness-extension structure may be located between a side seal formed between the first and second body panels. It is contemplated that other attaching methods can be used.

The reclosable packages, such as reclosable package 10, can be formed of any suitable material, such as by a thermoplastic material suitable for storing or collecting items, including perishables storage. This, of course, includes common-sized reclosable packages such as pint storage and freezer bags, quart storage and freezer bags, and gallon storage and freezer bags. The reclosable packages are typically formed from polymeric materials such as polyolefinic materials. Non-limiting examples of polyolefinic materials include polyethylenes, polypropylenes, polystyrene, and combinations thereof For example, some types of polyethylenes materials include high density polyethylenes (HDPE), low density polyethylenes (LDPE), linear low density polyethylenes (LLDPE), and combinations thereof. It is also contemplated that materials such as plastomers, elastomers, ethylene vinyl acetates (EVA), ethyl methacrylates, polymethylpentene copolymers, polyisbutylenes, polyolefin ionomers, cyclic olefin copolymers (COCs) or combinations thereof, including polyethylenes, and/or polypropylenes may be used in forming the reclosable packages of the present invention. The thicknesses of the reclosable packages can vary in the present invention, but are generally from about 0.5 mil to about 5 mils and, more specifically, from about 1 mil to about 3 mils.

As previously described herein, the freshness-extension agents of the present invention can be used in combination with a body panel of a package. Alternatively and/or in combination, the freshness-extension agents of the present invention can be used in combination with fin portions of a fastener of a reclosable package, as further described in co-pending U.S. patent application No. [Attorney Docket No. 086012-38600-USPT], the contents of which application are expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

While the disclosed packages with active agents have been shown and described with reference to the illustrated embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize and/or be able to ascertain many equivalents to those embodiments. Such equivalents are encompassed by the scope of the present disclosure and the appended claims.

For example, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the present invention has applications to various types of packages and containers, including unreclosable bags and liners, rigid containers such as plastic containers, lunch boxes, and rigid trash containers, and perishable packaging wraps and foils. Similarly, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the present invention has applications to active agents other than freshness-extension agents, such as odor management agents and other agents providing a desired function or effect on a package or the contents disposed therein.

Unless otherwise provided, when the articles “a” or “an” are used herein to modify a noun, they can be understood to include one or more than one of the modified noun. 

1. A reclosable package comprising: a pair of opposing body panels joined together along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides; a reclosable fastener extending along a mouth formed opposite the bottom; and a freshness-extension agent associated with at least one of the body panels for communication with an interior of the reclosable package and to inhibit spoilage of perishable product disposed therein.
 2. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the freshness-extension agent is included in at least one of a coating, a patch, a pouch, and a tape applied to the at least one of the body panels.
 3. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the freshness-extension agent is distributed in the at least one of the body panels.
 4. The reclosable package of claim 3, wherein the freshness-extension agent is distributed in the at least one of the body panels in the form of microcapsules.
 5. The reclosable package of claim 1, further comprising: a structure to selectively initiate release of the freshness-extension agent.
 6. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the freshness-extension agent is released by humidity.
 7. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the freshness-extension agent includes an isothiocyanate compound.
 8. The reclosable package of claim 7, wherein the freshness-extension agent further includes an acid.
 9. The reclosable package of claim 7, wherein the freshness-extension agent further includes a fragrant.
 10. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the freshness-extension agent is included in a permeable freshness-extension layer having a release agent.
 11. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the freshness-extension agent is included in a freshness-extension layer, the reclosable package further comprising: a removable cover removably attached to at least a portion of the freshness-extension layer.
 12. The reclosable package of claim 11, wherein the freshness-extension layer is secured to one of the body panels and the removable cover is secured to the other of the body panels.
 13. The reclosable package of claim 1, further comprising: a barrier layer associated with the at least one of the body panels.
 14. The reclosable package of claim 13, wherein the barrier layer is attached to the at least one of the body panels via at least one of an adhesive, a co-extrusion, a heat seal, and a weld.
 15. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the freshness-extension agent is included in a freshness-extension layer, the reclosable package further comprising: a diffusion layer disposed adjacent to the freshness-extension layer.
 16. The reclosable package of claim 15, wherein the diffusion layer is located closer to the interior than the freshness-extension layer.
 17. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the freshness-extension agent is included in a freshness-extension layer and the at least one of the body panels defines a perforation extending therethrough, the freshness-extension layer being disposed on the exterior of the at least one of the body panels adjacent the perforation.
 18. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the freshness-extension agent is included in a freshness-extension layer attached to one of the body panels, the freshness-extension layer including a one-time breakable element extending between and secured to the opposing body panels.
 19. A reclosable package comprising: a first opposing body panel having an inner surface and an outer surface, a second opposing body panel having an inner surface and an outer surface, the first and second body panels being joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides so as to form an open mouth at one end, the joined first and second body panels forming an interior space, a reclosable polymeric seal extending along the one end of the inner surface of the first and second opposing body panels, at least one polymeric freshness-extension structure including a first polymeric layer being a barrier layer and a second polymeric layer being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent, the second polymeric layer being adjacent to the first polymeric layer, the first polymeric layer being attached to the package such that the freshness-extension agent of the second layer is in communication with the interior space.
 20. A freshness-extension structure comprising: a first polymeric layer being a barrier layer, a second polymeric layer being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension ingredient, the second polymeric layer being adjacent to the first polymeric layer, and a removable cover removably attached to at least a portion of the second polymeric layer. 